NorQuest College Alumni Advisory Committee: Saying goodbye to founding members

As we launch into 2026, we are preparing to enter our fourth year of the NorQuest Alumni Advisory Committee, which means saying goodbye to our final group of founding members and welcoming in an excited new group of alumni.

In its first three years, our committee has been integral in launching and creating our alumni awards, expanding our reach into community and sharing stories of impact with NorQuest learners. As a group, our committee members have volunteered over 500 hours both on and off campus, helping our alumni program thrive. We would not be where we are today without this amazing committee, and we thank all our members, past and present, for their contributions.

Read on below, to learn more about our founding members that are retiring this year, after three years of dedicated service on the committee.

Bazibuhe Muhabwa: Settlement Studies, 2022

Since graduating from NorQuest, Bazi earned his bachelor’s degree in human services. With nearly a decade of experience in local and international humanitarian work, he has served in roles such as Child and Youth Care Worker, Settlement Worker, and Community Development Facilitator. He also holds certifications in public speaking and professional development, and currently volunteers as a Board Executive Member at the Kirk Center in Edmonton. 

During his time on committee Bazi always brought enthusiasm and great ideas to promote the college and his program. He is an amazing ambassador and support in his community,

Binita Khadka: Disability Studies, 2021

Binita works as a Team Leader at a nonprofit organization committed to supporting and encouraging individuals and families to reach their fullest potential and find their place within the community. Each day reminds her that real strength is built through connection, respect, and shared hope.

Binita has decided to continue her educational journey, and is once again a student at NorQuest, this time in the Practical Nurse program, proving again her dedication to community and giving back.

Chad Reeh: Practical Nurse, 2018

Chad is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) working as a travel nurse. He mainly works in emergency and acute care, but he’s also trained in hemodialysis and the operating room. His work has taken him across B.C., Saskatchewan, and all over northern Alberta. 

Though not always able to attend in person due to his work, Chad always brought great ideas and enthusiasm to the committee, while sharing his joy of travel nursing, and passion for his career.

Janill Burton-Perry: Practical Nurse, 2020

Janill is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with Alberta Health Services and works in a hospital setting where she provides nursing care to individuals with blood cancers and blood disorders.

While on committee Janill never missed an opportunity to give back, sitting on panels, volunteering at events and sharing what life is like as a nurse with hundreds of NorQuest students. Her professionalism and passion are unmatched, and we will miss her strong presence on committee.

RoseMarie Meyer: Transition to Employment, 2018

Rosemarie gained many valuable skills during her time at NorQuest and truly enjoyed both the program and the supportive community around her. Since completing her program, she has put her new skills to good use in her daily life and volunteer activities. She chose to give back to NorQuest because it was a good place for her and helped her grow.

Rose is always the first member to sign up for all volunteer activities and over the last three years she has contributed the highest number of hours of any member. We will miss her smile and enthusiasm at all events, and know she will remain an active supporter of the college.

Rossanna Ong: Early Learning Child Care, 2022

Since she graduated, Rossanna has worked as an Early Childhood Educator, Educational Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, and Kindergarten Teacher, creating inclusive and engaging spaces that inspire curiosity and growth. With a focus on play-based learning and holistic development, she helps children explore, build confidence, and thrive. Rosie also spent time as a Student Administrative Assistant in NorQuest’s International Office, supporting students and helping with office operations.

As an international student herself, NorQuest became her second home—a place where she truly belonged. Grateful for the opportunities and support she received, she joined the NorQuest Alumni Committee to give back and support the next generation of international students beginning their new lives in Canada.

Vaishnavi Bhawsar, Business Administration, 2021

Vaishnavi Bhawsar works in the recruitment team of a utility company based in Edmonton, where she supports Talent Acquisition with a focus on building strong candidate relationships and enhancing employee engagement.

During her time on the committee, Vaishnavi served as the Vice-Chair from 2023 to 2024, and was the Committee Chair for 2025. Vaishnavi provided guidance and leadership to the group with grace and compassion, and served as an outstanding MC for our 2024 Alumni Awards. She looks forward to continued connections with the college and leaves big shoes to fill.

Thank you again to all our members for their lasting impact on the college. You have all laid the foundation for this committee, and have created a space that will live on for years to come.

Are you interested in learning more about our committee, and how to get involved? Email alumni@norquest.ca for more info.